European Experts Discussed use of Technology and Innovation for Healthcare Systems of Future

The World Health Organization Regional Office for Europe held a public hearing on “Health systems of the future: harnessing technology and innovation in health for everyone everywhere” via videoconference. The event was held as part of the preparation of the second European Programme of Work 2026-2030 (EWP2).

The meeting discussed how artificial intelligence, big data and precision medicine can help to address the shortage of health personnel in the European region, and how, in general, technology and innovation can help and hinder health systems.

The key strategic changes needed to enable health systems to make better use of technological advances were also addressed.

Experts raised the challenge of balancing the need for individualized, person-centered care that involves a caring human touch with the increased efficiency and adaptability of AI-based tools. The discussion also touched upon the role of citizens and communities in combating digital exclusion.

The legal regulation of these processes is reflected in the Model Law on Digital Health Care adopted by the IPA CIS on 14 April 2023. It states that digital health is the result of the processes of digitalization and digital transformation in the healthcare industry, which creates additional opportunities for highly qualified medical activity and its effective management. This is primarily aimed at improving the efficiency, accessibility, quality and effectiveness of medical services and other health care.

From the Secretariat of the IPA CIS Council the hearings were attended by Secretary of the IPA CIS Permanent Commission on Social Policy and Human Rights, Executive Secretary of the IPA CIS Expert Advisory Board on Public Health Evgenia Vladimirova, Head of the Department for International Relations, Secretary of the IPA CIS Permanent Commission on Political Issues and International Cooperation Maksimillian Selyutin and Consultant of the Department for International Relations Anastasiya Kozlova.